Leonardo Delivers the First AW139 Helicopter to the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department
MIAMI, FL – Llorente & Heckler, P.A. is delighted to announce that on October 13th, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) accepted the first of four AW139 helicopters produced by Leonardo during a ceremony at Kendall-Tamiami Executive Airport. Leonardo is a multinational company specializing in aerospace, defense, and security and offers a range of world-class helicopters which set the benchmark in technology, safety, and comfort.
The event was small, socially distanced and well attended. The County Mayor, several members of the Board of County Commissioners, First Responders, and representatives from the MDFR were all there in attendance. In addition to the invigorating speeches regarding the forward movement of MDFR, the ceremony included a demonstration ride on the helicopter.
During his speech, Mayor Gimenez said, “…the AW139 is a vital addition to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue’s fleet. They will provide a heightened level of safety and security for our Fire Rescue workers and those whose lives they work to save.”
Similarly, in a Press Release issued by Leonardo mentioned:
“With over 1,000 deliveries to date, the AW139 is the most successful global helicopter program in the last 15 years. More than 280 operators in over 70 countries use the AW139 for a wide variety of missions including fire suppression, emergency medical service, search and rescue….”
In December of 2019, MDFR ordered four AW139 aircrafts, in an effort to upgrade its fleet of helicopters. These helicopters will be primarily used for emergency medical services, fire containment and search and rescue. MDFR currently serves 29 municipalities and 71 fire stations within Miami-Dade County. The MDFR specialized unit of Miami-Dade Air Rescue also provides assistance to neighboring municipalities when necessary.